Airbnb’s New ID and Rental Agreement Rules

Starting November 20, 2026, Airbnb is changing when hosts can request a separate rental agreement or collect guests’ personal information. For property managers, that means reviewing the messages, forms, and check-in steps guests receive before their stay.

Separate agreements and requests for guest data will generally be restricted, with specific exceptions. Here’s what to review before the changes take effect.

Which bookings are affected?

The updated policy applies to reservations booked on or after November 20, 2026. The booking date determines which policy applies, not the check-in date.

For example, a guest who booked in October for a January stay falls under the previous policy. A guest who books on November 21 for that same January week falls under the updated policy.

If your team automatically sends rental agreements or ID requests, review how those messages are triggered. Your process may need to account for both sets of bookings.

Can hosts still request a rental agreement?

Airbnb allows separate contracts in limited circumstances, including requirements from a law, community association, or insurance provider; optional amenities; stays of at least 28 nights; and Luxe listings.

Allowed contracts must meet Airbnb’s requirements and be disclosed in the listing. Airbnb directs hosts to upload them under Contracts in listing settings. Hosts handle signatures themselves, and Airbnb does not require guests to sign or help enforce these agreements.

Review the contract requirements before using an agreement for a new booking.

Can hosts still ask for guest ID?

Generally, hosts cannot request personal information unless an exception applies. This includes contact details, identification documents, and certain sensitive information.

An in-person ID check at check-in is still allowed when disclosed under Additional rules. Keeping a physical or digital copy requires an applicable exception.

Permitted collection must be necessary for a qualifying legal or community requirement, or to facilitate an allowed contract. Disclose what you need and why, collect only what is necessary, and handle it securely.

What about check-in apps and Wi-Fi?

Review any step that asks guests to register or provide information.

Airbnb permits keyless entry apps but requires an alternative access method on request. Wi-Fi portals requesting personal data are restricted, with exceptions. Off-platform review and survey requests are also restricted.

Check the full policy against the tools used at each property.

What should property managers update?

Start with three parts of the guest experience:

1. Automated messages and forms. Identify where your team requests an agreement, ID, or contact details. Review each request against the updated policy and document any applicable exception.

2. The check-in process. Walk through the experience as a guest, from the first message to opening the front door. Flag required registrations and make sure your team knows how to provide alternative access when needed.

3. Property documentation. Keep information about the home organized independently of guest paperwork. Dated photos, equipment details, and maintenance records can help your team understand the property’s condition and respond to questions.

For portfolios with different local requirements, create a property-by-property checklist. A process that applies to one home may need to be adjusted for another.

Keep the home’s information organized

As you update guest-facing processes, take the opportunity to review how your team documents the home itself. Can you find recent photos? Identify the equipment in each room? See which details still need to be captured?

A VillaFact Home Record brings property photos, documents, and system information together, giving homeowners and property managers a clearer starting point for those questions.

Create your Home Record.

Source: Airbnb’s policy on host-imposed contracts and other requirements. Reviewed November 5, 2026. Check Airbnb’s current guidance before updating your processes.